Meet Amanda Crain | Lifestyle & Portrait Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Amanda Crain and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Amanda, let’s start by talking about what inspires you?
I am inspired by a few things. First, my husband and daughter, they have really paved a path for me to bring some of my visions to life. This new role of being a wife and mom has made me want to do more, not just with my photography but with things outside of that. Another inspiration is definitely my surroundings, we just recently moved out to the country and the amount of land and livestock we are surrounded by has helped bring the direction in which I want to take my brand into perspective. I look at everything around and think Boot Barn catalog, which probably sounds silly but I love the western/ranch lifestyle.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’m a lifestyle & portrait photographer. My work consists of posed and candid photos. When booking with me I’m capturing the moment we’re in and the raw emotions of that moment. My clients become friends and are in a safe zone when they’re with me, I’m not here to judge, I’m here to hype them up and make them feel good. Photography is a love of mine and I always want my clients to feel and know that. I got where I am through a ton of trial and error, and there is always room to grow and learn. It wasn’t always easy, there were times where I just didn’t want to pick up my camera again, but because of the amount of support and love I have received I was and still am able to get through those moments. I’ve learned that not every client is your client, and I’m not everyone’s photographer. Doesn’t mean anything ill-willed, just means we weren’t a great match. I’ve also learned to take the photos that make me happy, that make me feel safe, and represent what I want my brand to be. I want the world to know that when I started this journey I was in a very dark place, dealing with severe Postpartum Depression, trying to deal with my new role and life as a mom. My brand is built on love, a lot of healing and coming out of that dark place. The sessions I’ve booked are healing not just for me but for some of my clients. I’m here to capture memories that will last a lifetime.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
First things first, we are stopping at Harris BBQ in Cedar Hill for some amazing brisket, ribs and sides. It’s family owned and is my go-to spot for all the BBQ cravings. We’d also go to Big Shucks for drinks and some amazing spicy ceviche! For something a bit more upscale, The Keg has an amazing bacon-wrapped Filet Mignon and a blue cheese salad that is worth the price. Their wine list is also some of my favorite wines ever. We’d also catch Lord of the Wiings in Oak Cliff, their spicy elote wings are literally what dreams are made of, along with that ranch. The Fort Worth Stockyards is one of my favorite places to go, and is to me one of the most exciting areas in DFW. The fashion and vendors are amazing, the bars are great and if we can catch a concert at Dickie’s Arena we are going! If a person can handle the different views of the city and go with the flow, that for me is exciting. We can go from upscale to a hole in the wall places and still love the city and have fun.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I definitely have an amazing amount of supporters behind me, which has made this leap into photography such a rewarding experience. My husband is my #1 cheerleader in everything I do! He always has the best advice and is even a great help on set. I would not be doing this if it wasn’t for him pushing me to do so. My best friends, Sandra & Josh who always hype me up and are quick to give me constructive criticism when needed. Sandra has always been so supportive in everything I do, she’s my rock on days I get too into my head. Josh has mentored me and taught me so many things about photography, he’s another reason I took to photography. It’s also great to have a friend who understands the rewards and struggles of the industry. My two muses, my daughter Luna and my niece Leslie. I started practicing portraits with Leslie for awhile now & when Luna arrived I dived a bit deeper into it. Aside from those above, my entire family! They have encouraged me so much and I’m lucky to have their support and encouragement.

Website: https://amandacrainphotography.mypixieset.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amandacrainphotography/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amandacrainphotography